CN110337270A - Force measuring equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

Force measurement systems and methods for accurate real-time measurement of forces are disclosed. The system is configured to measure force as a function of time. The system may include a handheld device capable of measuring forces externally applied to opposing surface areas thereof for the purpose of monitoring or directing isometric movements for the health of an individual. Further, the system may be configured to transmit the force measurement data to a remote device or server.

Description

Force measuring equipment

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Provisional Application No. 62/442,296, filed January 4, 2017, and Provisional Application No. 62,478,467, filed March 29, 2017, the entire contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference .

technical field

The present invention relates generally to force measurement technology, and more particularly to a portable force measurement device for measuring force. The force measurement techniques of the present invention may be incorporated into many different objects for interacting with a user, including, but not limited to, handheld devices, or objects surrounding or near the user that facilitate interaction with the user.

Background technique

Devices used during individual or group exercise may be stationary or portable. The fixture may be configured to provide exercise equipment and quantify various aspects of a daily exercise, such as repetitions, calories burned, and the like. Portable devices typically include far fewer features than larger stationary devices, and are often configured to monitor parameters (such as heart rate, calories burned, or stride taken while walking or running) without providing a device for exercise . Devices for measuring and wirelessly transmitting force are known, such as electronic bathroom scales configured to transmit a user's weight via a wireless communication protocol, however, these devices are not configured to measure and transmit changes over time The real-time force (eg when squeezing between the user's palms) is also not designed for portable, hand-held use during isometric exercise. Portable exercise equipment is useful when routine exercise is inconvenient or impractical. For example, air travel or other long-term sedentary activities may limit the use of standard equipment. The ability to track and record workouts provides an added benefit. For example, users can set goals and performance goals. In medical monitoring applications, fixed or portable units can be used to track performance and quickly screen for potential health problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention describes systems and methods for measuring force.

The force measurement systems described herein may, for example, be and/or may be used in portable devices that facilitate isometric exercise by a user. In one or more embodiments, the system is configured to measure the force and transmit the measurements to an external application in real-time or near real-time. However, this is not intended to be limiting. Depending on the application, the present system may be used for other purposes and/or may add other functionality to the device. For example, the device may include an integrated 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, and/or geolocation (GPS) sensor. These additional features can provide information about user activity, movement, and exercise intensity to supplement force measurement data.

The system may be used in conjunction with various force-applying activities developed around isometric training to exercise, rehabilitate, etc. muscles, muscle groups and/or other body parts through isometric and/or other activities. The device may interact with application software, such as an exercise tracking application/exercise guidance application or a game that enhances the exercise/rehabilitation experience. For example, when interacting with an application, the application may ask the user to apply force to the device at different intensities and for different durations.

The system can be and/or can be incorporated into many different physical devices, such as hand-held force measurement devices. In such an embodiment, the system may be configured to engage the exterior of the device by pressing different areas of the device together in a squeezing motion (this is merely an example and not intended to be limiting), thereby allowing the user to interact with interact with the force measurement system. This application of force may cause the force to be transmitted to sensors (eg, load cells and/or other sensors) within the housing of the system. The system may be configured to include and process signals from other sensors, such as temperature, heart rate, pulse oximetry, electrocardiogram, and the like. Each sensor may include an integrated strain gauge configured to convert strain into small resistance changes. For example by applying a Wheatstone half bridge and/or other circuit arrangement, the circuit outputs a measurable change in voltage which can be converted into a force value. A closely coupled second strain gauge can be used to compensate for temperature changes.

In some embodiments, the force measurement system includes a housing body including a plurality of surface areas configured to receive forces applied thereon. At least two individual surface areas of the plurality of surface areas are configured to be responsive to exerting a force (eg, isometric force and/or other force) on at least two individual surface areas of the plurality of surface areas ) and move relative to each other. One or more force sensors (eg, load cells and/or other sensors) may be configured to generate output signals that convey force-related information. The force measurement system includes a power supply, and electronic components including one or more processors and other electronic circuits. In some embodiments, an electronic assembly is operably coupled to the one or more force sensors and a power source (eg, a battery). The force sensor, power supply and electronic components are enclosed within the housing body. The one or more processors are configured by machine-readable instructions (eg, software and/or firmware) to process sensor output signals to convert and/or amplify force-related information to generate voltage signals. The force measurement system may be configured to determine individual or aggregated force values associated with sensor output signals. In some embodiments, the force measurement system is configured to transmit the processed sensor output signals to a remote computing device not contained by the housing body. In some embodiments, the remote computing device is configured to receive and process a plurality of sensor output signals, and to determine individual or aggregated force values associated with the sensor output signals.

In some embodiments, the one or more force sensors include a plurality of load cells using strain gauges. The load cells may be spaced apart in a peripheral region of the housing body to provide a force sensing region. The force-sensing region includes regions where the value of the aggregated force is substantially the same regardless of where in the force-sensing region the force is received. The force sensing area may correspond to the shape and/or size of one or more of the plurality of surface areas. In some embodiments, the force measurement system includes: a plurality of load cells, each load cell being fixed to a cantilever beam, each cantilever beam having a fixed end and a free end; a frame assembly to which the load cells are attached to the frame assembly, wherein the frame assembly is housed within the housing body and floats relative to the housing body; and a plurality of activation members positioned such that at least one activation member is positioned on each cantilever beam between the free end and the housing body. In some embodiments, the one or more force sensors are selected from force sensing resistors, load cells using strain gauges, displacement sensors such as linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) devices, A group of Hall Effect sensors and optical sensors, piezoresistive sensors, and pressure sensors.

In some embodiments, the user applies a force to the housing during the isometric movement. A tare function may be implemented to account for zero offset values and/or zero drift in the strain gauge load cell signal when no force is applied. In some embodiments, the force measurement system further includes circuitry configured to provide temperature compensation to enhance the accuracy of the value of the aggregate force. In some embodiments, the value of the cohesive force applied to the housing body is determined to within an accuracy of +/- 1 pound and/or to within a linearity of +/- 5%. In some embodiments, the force measurement system is further configured to convert an analog signal to a digital measurement in real time, the analog signal conveying information related to the repetitive force exerted on the device, wherein the one or more processors The machine-readable instructions are configured to provide real-time information to the user regarding the force applied to the housing body.

Another aspect of the invention describes a force measurement method. The force measurement method is carried out with the force measurement system. The method includes receiving the force with a housing body, the housing body including a plurality of surface areas configured to receive a force exerted thereon. The plurality of surface areas may include shapes that are movable relative to each other in response to application of a force on at least two individual surface areas of the plurality of surface areas. The method includes utilizing the one or more force sensors to generate output signals that convey force-related information. The method includes operatively connecting a power source and an electronic assembly to the one or more force sensors, the electronic assembly including the one or more processors. The method includes accommodating the one or more force sensors, power supply, and electronic components in a housing body. The method includes executing machine-readable instructions to cause the one or more processors to: process sensor output signals to convert and/or amplify force-related information to generate a voltage signal; and transmit the voltage signal to a signal not generated by the housing A remote computing device housed by the main body. In some embodiments, the method further includes utilizing the remote computing device to determine the value of the cohesive force associated with the sensor output signal.

Description of drawings

1A is a schematic diagram of a force measurement system in communication with a remote computing device in accordance with one or more embodiments.

1B is an assembly diagram depicting aspects of a force measurement system in accordance with one or more embodiments.

Figure 2A shows a housing body and a reference frame in accordance with one or more embodiments.

2B illustrates an example of an embodiment of a first portion of a housing body in accordance with one or more embodiments.

2C illustrates an example of an embodiment of a second portion of a housing body in accordance with one or more embodiments.

3A illustrates an example of an implementation of a force sensor of a force measurement system in accordance with one or more implementations.

3B illustrates an example of an implementation of a load cell of a force measurement system in accordance with one or more implementations.

3C depicts an example of an implementation of a frame of a force measurement system in accordance with one or more implementations.

4 is a block diagram illustrating electrical circuitry of a force measurement system in accordance with one or more embodiments.

5 is a diagram illustrating how a user interacts with a force measurement system in accordance with one or more embodiments.

6 illustrates a method for measuring force with a force measurement system in accordance with one or more embodiments.

Detailed ways

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided as illustrative examples to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Notably, the figures and examples below are not meant to limit the scope of the invention to a single embodiment, but other embodiments may be implemented by interchanging some or all of the elements described or illustrated . Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. Where certain elements of the embodiments may be partially or fully implemented using known components, only those parts of these known components that are necessary for understanding the invention will be described, and others of these known components will be omitted part of the detailed description in order to avoid obscuring the present invention. In this specification, embodiments showing a single component should not be considered limiting; rather, unless expressly stated otherwise herein, the invention is intended to cover other embodiments comprising multiples of the same component, and vice versa. Furthermore, applicants do not intend to ascribe an uncommon or special meaning to any term in the specification or claims unless explicitly set forth as such. Furthermore, the present invention includes present and future known equivalents of the components referenced herein by way of illustration. Other and additional aspects and features will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description of the embodiments, which are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the invention.

As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the statement that two or more parts (or components) are "coupled" shall mean that as long as the linking occurs, the parts are directly or indirectly (ie, through one or more intervening parts or components) coupled together or work together. As used herein, "directly coupled" means that two elements are in direct contact with each other. As used herein, "fixedly coupled" or "fixed" means that two components are coupled to move integrally while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. As used herein, the term "or" means "and/or" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, the word "unitary" means that the components are produced as a single piece or unit. That is, a component that includes multiple workpieces that are produced separately and then coupled together as a unit is not a "unitary" component or body. As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are "engaged" with each other shall mean that the parts exert forces opposing each other, either directly or through one or more intermediate parts (or components). As used herein, the term "number" shall mean one or an integer greater than one (ie, a plurality).

Directional terms (such as, but not limited to, top, bottom, left, right, upper, lower, front, rear, and derivatives thereof) used herein refer to the orientation of elements shown in the figures, and The claims are not limited unless explicitly recited therein.

1A illustrates a force measurement system 100 configured to measure force and to communicate with one or more remote devices 102 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In a first embodiment, the force measurement system is configured to transmit the processed sensor output signals to a remote computing device using a wired connection or via a wireless communication link 104 using a wireless communication protocol. In an alternative embodiment, the force measurement system is configured to use the first wireless communication link 108 between the force measurement system and the cloud server and the second wireless communication link 110 between the cloud server and the remote device via the cloud server 106 Transmit the processed sensor output signal to a remote device. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the foregoing embodiments are not limiting and, for example, wired connections may be substituted for any wireless links, and vice versa, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The force measurement system 100 may operate with a remote application running on a remote device 102 such as a personal mobile device or computer, mobile phone, tablet or other personal computing device. The force measurement device communicates with the application and together they can operate as a combined system. The force measurement device is capable of converting the repetitive force applied to the device into a digital measurement in real time and then communicating with the device in real time to provide the user with information about the force the user is applying to the device. The system is configured to allow a user to interact with various applications (eg, fitness applications, gaming applications, physical therapy applications, biometric applications, historical comparison applications, calories burned application, multi-user experience) by applying force on the housing of the force measurement system application and/or other applications) to interact (as described below).

As shown in Figure IB and described in detail below, in operation, the system measures forces and transmits the measurements to an external application in real-time. The user interacts with the exterior of the force measurement system 100 by pressing opposing surface areas of the system toward each other and/or in other directions. For example, this can be a squeezing action and/or other action. The user may use any variation of body parts (eg, use one hand, use both hands, use elbows and knees, use both knees, etc.), use body parts with fixed surfaces (eg, wall, table top, etc.) and/or any other method to compress (eg, squeeze) the surface of the system. In some implementations, the force is caused by isometric movement and/or activities performed by other users. The application of such force results in the transfer of the force to a pressure sensor within the device, such as a (eg, high strength and/or other) load cell. In one or more embodiments described below, each load cell includes an integrated strain gauge to convert strain into a signal (eg, small changes in resistance).

In some embodiments, the system circuitry employs a Wheatstone half-bridge strain gauge (although other force measurement techniques are also under consideration) that are configured to enable the circuit to output a measurable voltage change (based on the strain gauge in the strain gauge). resistance change below). A closely coupled nearly identical second strain gauge is arranged orthogonally to the gauge in order to provide temperature compensation. In some embodiments, the system firmware uses a two-point linear calibration to convert the voltage read from each load cell to force. Multiple force values are aggregated (eg, summed and/or other aggregates) to determine the total force experienced by the device. As a non-limiting example, in use, force measurements may be obtained every 100 ms and the results transmitted to a remote computing device. This transmission can be done using e.g. low power consumption ( Low Energy, BLE), WiFi, LAN, USB, or any wired or wireless transmission method or protocol (including any standard, custom or proprietary method). The voltage from each strain gauge is amplified and then formed by, for example, electronic components 140 of the system as described below (eg, by and/or by one or more methods including a printed circuit board including a microcontroller) unit (microcontroller unit, MCU)) analog-digital converter (analog-digital converter, ADC) to measure.

FIG. 1B shows an embodiment of the force measurement system 100 of FIG. 1A . The system includes a housing body 115 having a top housing 120 and a bottom housing 125 (the terms "top" and "bottom" are for convenience only and not intended to be limiting) and/or other components, top housing 120 and bottom housing 125 and/or or other components are configured to be assembled together and/or otherwise engaged with each other to form the housing body 115 . The housing body 115 may provide protection and/or mechanical support for the components contained therein. For example, the housing body 115 may form the housing of the system 100 . Housing body 115 houses one or more force sensors 130 , electronic components 140 , battery or other power source 150 , frame 160 , and a light source (not shown) for providing information to a user through light pipe 170 . In some embodiments, the system 100 may also be equipped with accelerometers and/or gyroscopes (not shown). In some embodiments, the housing body has a volume dimension of 115 cubic centimeters or less.

The force sensor 130 relies on and/or includes one or more force sensing technologies. Suitable force sensing techniques may include, but are not limited to, force sensing resistors, load cells using strain gauges, displacement sensors (eg, linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) devices, Hall effect sensors, and optical sensors), pressure Resistive sensors and/or pressure sensors. A load cell may also be referred to as a force sensor. The force sensor generates an output signal that transmits information for determining the force value of the force applied to the housing. The device also includes an electronic assembly 140 that includes electronic circuitry and firmware and/or other components configured to facilitate aggregation of force values from one or more force sensors (eg, sum) to determine the total force exerted on the housing (housing body 115 ) of the system 100 . In some implementations, the electronics assembly 140 can be configured such that data collected by the sensors can optionally be collected and communicated to a remote resident (eg, resident on the remote computing device 102 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B ). ) software for calculating the total force. In embodiments where the computation is performed by firmware on the system 100, the total force applied may be communicated to the remote application software.

As described in detail below, the outer surface areas of system 100 (eg, the surfaces of housing 120 and housing 125 ) are configured to enhance the user's experience with system 100 by being smooth and free from sharp edges or pinch points, as well as providing access to internal components Protect. These outer surfaces are constructed of materials such as engineering plastics or elastomers that have the properties to withstand user-applied forces, withstand cyclic loading from isometric motion, provide a water/sweat barrier to electronic components, withstand standard cleaning agents and chemicals capability, and is sealed sufficiently that the ingress of foreign objects will not damage the internal components. In some embodiments, the elastomer is co-molded with a plastic portion of sufficient stiffness to provide restricted movement of the housing without introducing a sharp-cornered gap that could lead to danger.

FIG. 2A shows a view of housing body 115 including housing 120 and housing 125 . An orthogonal Cartesian coordinate system is defined as the reference system for this and subsequent figures. The positive z-direction 200 is defined by a vector that is substantially perpendicular to the center of the outer surface of the top housing 120 and points upward in FIG. 2A ; The positive x-direction 204 is defined by a vector that is perpendicular to and intersects the z-axis, and points to the right in FIG. 2A such that the x- and z-axes are in the plane of the page of FIG. 2A ; the negative x-direction 206 is set opposite, with The positive x-direction 204 together forms the x-axis 207 . The positive y direction 208 is defined by a vector orthogonal to the x and y axes and pointing into the plane of FIG. 2A; As shown in FIG. 2A, the housing body 115 may include a button or switch 215, an outer portion of the light pipe 170 (FIG. 1B), and/or one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs; not shown) or other indicators, displays or user interface features.

The housing body 115 includes at least (in this example, along the z-axis 203 ) a top housing 120 and a bottom housing 125 positioned opposite each other, wherein the two housings include outer housings responsive to, for example, isometric forces and/or housings. Shapes that are movable relative to each other by application of other forces on the surface area (eg, in the +z direction 200/-z direction 202). In some embodiments, the additional housing body components may include ergonomic shapes that are movable relative to each other in response to the application of forces (eg, isometric forces) on their outer surfaces. In some embodiments, the top and bottom shells may be attached to straps 212 therebetween, wherein the means for attachment allow relative movement between the top and bottom shells; and/or the top and bottom shells The housings may be attached to one or more other housing body components that allow relative movement (eg, along the z-axis) between the two housings. The ergonomic housing is designed to optimize user comfort and force measurement accuracy.

Figure 2B shows a side view 220 of the top housing 120 of the housing body 115 of Figure 2A. The side view is from the same perspective as Figure 2A, and the projected bottom view 225 has an x-axis 207 and a y-axis 211 in the plane of the page and a positive z-direction 200 into the page. A shape is defined at least in part by the perimeter 230 of the top housing. In the depicted embodiment, the perimeter is neither circular nor elliptical, but a smooth continuous curve that defines ergonomic elongation along the x-axis relative to the largest dimension 235 along the y-axis The largest dimension 235 along the y-axis is smaller than the largest dimension 240 along the x-axis. In some embodiments, the device geometry can be any shape designed to receive forces from a user. For example, the top surface 245 may be straight, flat, curved, arcuate, domed, and/or have one or more other shapes.

Referring to the side view 220 of the top housing shown in FIG. 2B , the top housing 120 of the housing body 115 has a convex and smoothly contoured outer top surface 245 designed so that the For most or all pairs of points, the first vector 250 intersecting and perpendicular to the surface at the first point 251 is generally not parallel to the second vector 255 intersecting and perpendicular to the surface at the second point 256 .

Figure 2C shows a side view 260 of the bottom shell 125 of the housing body 115 of Figure 2A. The side view is from the same perspective as Figure 2A, and the projected bottom view 265 has an x-axis 207 and a y-axis 211 in the plane of the page and a z-direction 200 into the page. In this example, the shape defined by the perimeter 270 is substantially a mirror image of the shape of the top housing and is elongated along the x-axis relative to the largest dimension 275 along the y-axis, which is less than the largest dimension 275 along the x-axis Size 280.

Referring to the side view 260 of the top housing shown in FIG. 2C , the bottom housing 125 of the housing body 115 has a convex and smoothly contoured outer bottom surface 285 designed so that the For most or all point pairs, the first vector 290 intersecting and perpendicular to the surface at the first point 291 is generally not parallel to the second vector 295 intersecting and perpendicular to the surface at the second point 296 .

In some embodiments, the top and bottom shells can be attached to straps 212 therebetween and provide a resilient connection between the top and bottom shells to form a housing that allows relative movement between the shells (eg, , housing body 115). In some embodiments, the straps may be incorporated into the top housing 120 or the bottom housing as shown in Figure 2C. The system 100 may also include visual indicators to convey information to the user about the operation of the device, including, but not limited to, the status of wireless connections, mechanical activation and deactivation of device activity, and user controls, which visual indicators may incorporate into any part of the housing body 115 .

FIG. 3A shows frame assembly 300 that includes force sensor 130 ( FIG. 1B ) and/or other components configured to generate and fixedly attach to frame 160 an output signal that transmits force-related information . In this example, the force sensor 130 includes a plurality of load cells 303, each using a strain gauge 309, wherein the load cells are spaced apart in a peripheral region of the housing body to provide a force sensing region (also shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C ) 301 . The force-sensing region 301 includes a region that aggregates the value of the force (eg, as described herein) regardless of the location in the force-sensing region where the force is received. As shown in Figures 2B, 2C, and 3A, the force-sensing regions correspond to touch points created by load cells projected on the top and bottom surfaces where the applied force can be accurately aggregated into measurements by the system limited shape. In shape, the force sensing area may correspond to one or more surface areas of the housing body 115 of Figure 2A. For example, the force sensing area may correspond to the top surface area 245 defined by the top housing perimeter 230 of FIG. 2B and/or the bottom surface area 285 defined by the perimeter 270 of FIG. 2C .

Each load cell 303 includes a cantilever beam 312 , each cantilever beam 312 having a fixed end 315 and a free end 318 . As shown in FIG. 3A , the load cell is mounted on the frame 160 using, for example, mechanical fasteners or anchors 172 positioned at anchor points 321 . The strain gauges 309 and other components are fixedly attached to the cantilever beam, forming a load cell subassembly 324 that is attached to the frame 160 using mounting screws and/or by any other attachment means. In some embodiments, the dimple 327 is located near the free end of the load cell, thereby providing a precise mechanical contact point from which the force exerted on the outer surface area of the force measurement system is transferred to the force cell. The chosen design approach provides the required force sensing accuracy at a lower cost, smaller size, and larger effective area than alternative designs. The value of the cohesive force applied to the housing body can be determined to within +/- 1 pound accuracy and/or to within +/- 5% linearity. To better ensure accurate force measurement of the device, the force sensing frame assembly can be protected by creating an overtravel geometry in order to limit stress on sensitive structures.

Referring again to FIG. 1B , the frame 160 of FIG. 3A may be attached to the bottom housing of the device using mounting screws 175 (eg, shoulder screws that mate with screw bosses in the lower housing and are fitted with springs 180 for biasing the frame). 125 in order to remain in contact with the load cell 303 while still allowing the frame assembly 300 to "float" relative to the bottom shell prior to bonding. In some embodiments, a pocket 327 at the end of each of the three cantilever beams 312 contacts the activation disk 185 supported by the bottom housing. Adhesive and/or other coupling components may be used to couple the cantilever beam and activation disk in the area adjacent to each pocket. The adhesive holds the frame securely to the bottom shell and allows for variations during manufacture and assembly. The frame is allowed to "float" relative to the bottom housing along the z-axis 203, constrained in vertical translation by the bottom housing mounting screws and accompanying springs, and in two horizontal directions by keying onto one or more of the screw bosses. The axes 207, 211 are physically constrained. For example, the top shell 120 may incorporate snap fit features to mate with interlocking on the frame to secure the top shell to the frame.

FIG. 3B shows a portion of a force sensor 130 (FIG. 1) commonly available in the industry. In some embodiments, the design of one or more force sensors may include load cells 303 incorporating strain gauges 309 . Load cells can be formed in various possible geometries. Perhaps the most common is a "W" shaped load cell 330, for example having a centrally located strain gauge 333, as shown in Figure 3B. The example implementation of FIG. 3B is not intended to be limiting. For example, a variation is the "J" shape, which consists essentially of half of a W. Other possible geometries that provide both positive and negative strain centered at the inflection point for improved accuracy include "U" shapes and "S" shapes (at higher cost and larger size). The "I" geometry (simple curved beam) is the most compact and lowest cost design, but is used less frequently because this geometry provides a single strain polarity and because of the challenges in supporting a cantilever beam.

In the example shown in FIG. 3A , the load cell is configured as a Wheatstone half bridge with strain gauges 309 mounted on each of three cantilever beams 312 . In some embodiments, the force measurement system 100 may include a cantilever load cell 303 (eg, a simple "I"-shaped cantilever load cell) with an attached strain gauge that interacts with the cantilever beam when a force is applied. Deflection of tip 318 changes resistance proportionally. The apparatus may also include a plurality of anchor points 321 that incorporate into the frame geometry and secure the cantilever to the frame 160 for more accurate measurements and to achieve consistent inflection points even at higher force levels. Multiple load cells can be spaced toward the periphery of the housing, providing a large active area in which a user can apply force with accurate force sensing (eg, force measurement area). The load cell can also be designed such that the load point 327 of the load cell is as close as possible to the tip of the cantilever beam, thereby providing a large effective (force measurement) area.

The Wheatstone half-bridge circuit outputs a measurable change in voltage when the tip 318 of the cantilever beam 312 is deflected due to forces exerted on outer surface areas such as the top surface 120 and bottom surface 125 of the system. This voltage from each strain gauge is amplified and then measured by an analog to digital converter (ADC). The firmware loads the two-point linear calibration and tare data from non-volatile memory and uses this data to convert the voltage read from each load cell to a force value. The three force values (one for each load cell) are aggregated or vector summed to determine the total force experienced by the device. In use, electronic assembly 140 (including one or more processors) may be configured such that force measurements are obtained in a quasi-continuous manner (eg, every 100 ms) in order to produce real-time results, which may be used using For example BLE transmission to the host device. This example is not intended to be limiting, as one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize any number of possible force signal collection algorithms (eg, different frequencies, different communication technologies, etc.).

The half-bridge strain gauge may include at least one active piezoresistive element that senses the elongation of the cantilever, and at least one other identical active piezoresistive element that serves as a reference for temperature compensation to ensure accurate force measurements over the entire temperature range . Accordingly, some embodiments may also include circuitry configured to provide temperature compensation to enhance the accuracy of the value of the cohesion force. Using one or more of these devices, the force can then be calculated as a calibrated scaled sum of multiple strain gauge readings. For example, a simple one-time calibration can be used to calibrate the device during manufacture to ensure the required accuracy. In some embodiments, the device may also have force sensor recalibration capabilities.

For example, the electronic assembly 140 (eg, including one or more processors) may be configured such that the tare weight is used when weighing the contents of a container, wherein the container is first weighed empty and then filled with the contents. The result of subtracting the empty weight from the total weight will give the weight of the contents, while discarding the weight of the container. This concept of tare weight can be applied to the load measurement of one or more embodiments of the present invention. For example, when the device has been intentionally placed in the absence of external forces, an "unloaded" weight can be recorded with a zero offset value and stored in non-volatile memory. Subsequent measurements were corrected by subtracting the recalled zero offset value from the reported force. Therefore, the zero offset error is similar to a "container" payload to be discarded. The device can be "calibrated" by means of a slope correction multiplier. This multiplier can be determined by applying a known weight to the device and recording the reported weight. By dividing the known weight by the reported weight, the software can store a slope correction multiplier, which can be used to quantify the measurement. Since this technique requires the application of a known repeatable weight, this can be applied, for example, as part of an initial calibration.

In some embodiments, the electronic components 140 (eg, the one or more processors) can be configured such that the application of zero-offset correction and slope multiplier linear correction techniques can be used for initial calibration or if the device encounters permanent Conditions affecting the measurement are used for subsequent calibration.

Figure 3C illustrates frame 160 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, and is oriented such that the x-axis 207 and y-axis 211 of Figure 2A are substantially parallel to the plane of the page. Bottom view 350 is oriented so that the positive z-direction 200 of FIG. 2A can be oriented into the page, while top view 355 is oriented so that the z-direction points out of the page. In the embodiment shown, the perimeter 360 of the frame is substantially the same shape as the perimeter 230 of the top shell and the perimeter 270 of the bottom shell, but slightly smaller to allow the frame to fit within the housing body. In some embodiments, the frame may include slots or grooves 365 to allow portions of the frame to flex to snap into the bottom housing 125 or the top housing 120 . In some embodiments, the slot may be L-shaped to optimize the retention force of the snap.

Frame 160 includes through holes 370 for mounting screws 175 for attaching the frame to the bottom housing and/or for other purposes. The holes may be configured as "slip fit" or slotted or gapped to facilitate proper alignment with respect to the top and bottom housings. In some embodiments, the slots may be designed to mate with protrusions on the mating portion in order to fix or limit the position of the mating portion relative to the frame. The frame also includes holes and/or wells for screw bosses 375 to anchor the frame to the bottom housing at anchor points 321 of Figure 3A. The frame may include a power well 380 for holding a battery or other power source and/or features 385 to accommodate electrical connections for the power source. The frame may have support structures 390 to support the cantilever beams and provide additional bosses into which mounting screws may be attached. The frame may also include components (not shown) for attaching the electronic components 140 of FIG. 1B (eg, including one or more processors on a printed circuit board (PCB)).

Referring back to FIG. 1B , the force measurement system 100 may be powered by a power source 150 (eg, a battery). The power source can be non-rechargeable or rechargeable. If rechargeable, the system 100 may be equipped with a charging port, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) charging port and/or other charging ports. If non-rechargeable, the system 100 may be fitted with a battery housing for this, eg, to a removable battery housing. In the example shown, the power source is a single AAA (AAA) battery held in place by a pair of battery clips in slot 380 (FIG. 3). A battery clip is fixedly attached to the frame 160 at each end of the battery well, and is fixedly connected to the electronic assembly 140 using, for example, solder.

The electronic assembly 140 of FIG. 1B may include a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly containing one or more chipsets (eg, one or more processors). A switch and one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) and/or other types of light sources can provide user feedback and are also mounted on the PCB. The light source(s) can be polychromatic and can be optically connected to the housing of the device by a molded light pipe. For example, switches, also mounted on the PCB, can be accessed through elastic internally molded buttons on strap 212. As further shown in Figures IB and 3A, located below the PCB (eg, in the orientation shown in the figures, but this is not limiting) are the device's load cells 130, 303 and activation plate 185 . The PCB assembly may be mounted to the frame 160 using screws or other tools to hold it in place. There is an electrical connection (not shown) between the PCB assembly and the strain gauges included with the load cell.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram 400 illustrating an electronic circuit in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The main electronic components and subsystems in the illustrated example include the following: MCU/BLE chip module 405, which is configured to provide both processing power and communication through the BLE wireless communication protocol; BLE antenna 410, which Configured to transmit and/or receive data; MUX (multiplexer)/PGA (programmable gate array)/one or more ADC modules 415, the MUX (multiplexer)/PGA (programmable gate array) )/one or more ADC modules configured to provide a signal path for converting strain gauge resistance to digital force measurements; power circuit module(s) 420 configured to Converts the battery voltage to the voltage required by the circuit and provides on/off control of the device; momentary switch 425, which is configured to provide on/off control; reset timer 430, which is configured as a decode button Press; RGB (red/green/blue) LED module 435, which is configured to provide red, green, and blue indicators; flash module 440, which is configured to persist Stores firmware images and other programming data locally, and provides the ability to store two images in case one image is invalid or corrupted (e.g., due to a failed firmware update); such as programming/debugging port 445 of a JTAG (Joint Test Action Group) port , the programming/debug port is configured to provide access and/or the ability to program the device and output debug data. The electrical circuit may be incorporated in whole or in part into the electronic assembly 140 and powered by the power supply 150 shown in Figure IB. The power supply and force sensor 130 are electrically connected to the electrical circuit. For example, the force sensor may be implemented as a strain gauge load cell 303 as shown in Figure 3A.

As noted, data transmission from the force measurement system 100 of FIG. 1A to the remote device 102 may be wired or wireless to enhance mobility using BLE or other wireless transmission techniques. If wireless transmission is used, the remote computing device may be equipped with an appropriate antenna. For example, an inverted-F antenna may be included. If desired, the antenna geometry can be modified to accommodate the mechanical constraints of the device. The length may also need to be adjusted to compensate for the size of the ground plane on the PCB. The wireless technology can be off-the-shelf or customizable so that the device can support the use of a Human Interaction Device (HID) to be compatible with games designed to use a mouse. For example, if BLE is employed to transmit data to the host device, the BLE communication capability may be provided by a chipset with a reference design or a pre-certified module such as a Texas Instruments (TI) CC2640MCU/BLE chipset. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other chipsets and/or wireless communication protocols may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the electrical circuits can be mounted on a single PCB, thereby eliminating potentially unreliable interconnects.

The firmware for the system 100, configured to be run by the MCU 405 (the one or more processors), controls the operation of the device, which may include, but is not limited to: powering on and off in response to button presses; via BLE or other wireless protocol to connect to remote computing devices; receive and/or aggregate force information from sensor output signals, analyze and/or convert output signals to voltage signals, and transmit real-time force data to remote devices; ” signals, such as low battery; and using BLE or other wireless protocols to download and install firmware upgrades. The firmware may operate as a single task under a real-time operating system, for example. Events including receiving data, button presses, and timed expirations can be signaled by interrupts, among other things. The one or more processors (MCU 405) may also be configured with an automatic timeout function to preserve battery charge life.

FIG. 5 is a diagram 500 illustrating how a user 501 interacts with the force measurement system device 100 of FIG. 1 . In this figure, the boxes in the left column represent hardware, the boxes in the middle column represent hardware interfaces, and the boxes in the right column represent firmware functions. As shown in Figure 5, the user interacts with the described device in the following steps, which need not be performed in the order shown. At step 505, the user turns the device on or off using a button (eg, 215 of Figure 2A). At step 510, the user applies pressure to an outer surface area of the device (eg, top housing 120 and bottom housing 125 of Figure IB) to perform isometric motion. At step 515, the user replaces the power source (eg, 150 in Figure IB) or recharges the power source when the power source is depleted. At step 520, the user observes the status of the device using LEDs (eg, 435 of Figure 4).

FIG. 6 shows a method 600 for measuring force using a force measurement system. The system includes a housing body having a plurality of surface areas, one or more sensors, a power source, an electronic assembly including one or more hardware processors configured to execute machine-readable instructions, and/or other components. The machine-readable instructions include instructions to cause the one or more processors to convert and/or amplify force-related information to generate a voltage signal, and to cause the one or more processors to communicate the processed sensor output signal Instructions to remote devices not contained by the housing body. The operations of method 600 presented below are intended to be illustrative. In some implementations, method 600 may be accomplished with one or more additional operations not described, and/or none of the operations discussed. Furthermore, the order in which the operations of method 600 are illustrated in FIG. 6 and described below is not intended to be limiting. For example, in some applications it may be desirable to record and store a zero offset tare value and/or implement temperature compensation prior to determining the value of any cohesion force.

In some embodiments, method 600 may be implemented in whole or in part on one or more processing devices (eg, digital processor, analog processor, digital circuit designed to process information, analog circuit designed to process information, state machine and/or other mechanism for electronically processing information, including MCU 405 of one or more processors as described herein. A processing device may include one or more devices that perform some or all of the operations of method 600 in response to instructions electronically stored on an electronic storage medium. A processing device may include one or more devices configured by hardware, firmware, and/or software specifically designed to perform one or more operations of method 600 .

At operation 602, a force is received by a housing body housing the force sensor, power supply, and electronic components. In some embodiments, the force is received by a housing body that is the same as or similar to housing body 115 (eg, shown in FIG. 2 and described herein). In some applications, the force may be an isometric force exerted on the housing by a user while performing isometric movements and/or other forces and/or exercises as described herein.

At operation 604, one or more force sensors are provided to generate output signals that transmit force-related information. The one or more force sensors may be the same as or similar to sensor 130 (shown in FIG. 1B and described herein) and may employ one or more force sensing techniques as described herein. In some embodiments, the signal is generated by using a Wheatstone half-bridge circuit in combination with a strain gauge load cell 303 (shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B and in described herein) identical or similar.

At operation 606, electronic components the same as or similar to electronic components 140 (shown in FIG. IB and described herein) are provided, the electronic components including one or more processors configured to execute machine-readable instructions. The electronic assembly is operably coupled to one or more of the force sensors described above and a power source the same as or similar to power source 150 (shown in FIG. 1B and described herein). In some embodiments, the electronic assembly may include a PCB as described herein. In some embodiments, the one or more processors may include an MCU/BLE chip module 405 (as shown in FIG. 4 and described herein) configured to provide processing capabilities and communications via the BLE wireless communication protocol .

At operation 608, circuitry is provided that implements temperature compensation in order to enhance the accuracy of the value of the cohesion force. As described herein, a half-bridge strain gauge may include at least one piezoresistive element that senses the elongation of the cantilever, and at least one other nominally identical piezoresistive element that serves as a reference for temperature compensation, to ensure that over the entire temperature range Precise force measurement inside. Accordingly, some embodiments may include a method of using a reference piezoresistive element to provide temperature compensation in order to improve the accuracy of the value of the cohesion force.

At operation 610, one or more processors execute machine-readable instructions that cause the one or more processors to process sensor output signals to convert and/or amplify force-related information to generate voltage signals. In some embodiments, a Wheatstone half bridge may be used in conjunction with a strain gauge load cell as described herein to generate the voltage signal. Further, at operation 610, the one or more processors execute machine-readable instructions that cause the one or more processors to transmit the processed sensor output signals to a remote computing device 102 ( A remote computing device identical or similar to that shown in FIG. 1A and described herein).

At operation 612, a remote computing device the same as or similar to the remote computing device 102 (shown in FIG. 1A and described herein) determines a value of cohesion by processing the transmitted sensor output signals. In some implementations, the value of the aggregated force can be determined by summing the force values from multiple individual force sensors as described herein.

At operation 614, the zero-offset tare value recorded when no external force is applied to the housing body is stored in a non-volatile memory the same as or similar to memory 440 (shown in FIG. 4 and described herein) middle. This value can be recalled and used later to enhance the accuracy of subsequent force measurements. In some embodiments, the zero offset tare value is subtracted from subsequent measurements, as described herein. In some embodiments, if the component exhibits mechanical or electrical drift over time, a user-enabled tare function can be built into the device to reset the zero-offset tare value at the user's request.

At operation 616, the signals conveying information related to the repetitive force applied to the system are converted into digital measurements in real-time, and the user is provided (eg, via a remote computing device) with real-time information on the force applied to the housing body information. For example, force measurements can be taken every 100 ms and the results transmitted to a remote computing device as described herein. This information can be used for example Low Power (BLE) is transmitted using functions similar or similar to those provided by 405 and 410 (shown in Figure 4), or through another connection as described herein.

At operation 618 , at least two surface areas of the housing body of the force measurement system 100 (eg, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B and described herein) receive the force applied by the user while performing the isometric exercise. force. As described above, the exercise-related force may be measured and/or transmitted to the user as a function of time. The system may transmit exercise information, such as goals, instructions, parameters or programs related to performing the exercise. Workout information may be pre-programmed and/or based on various aspects of user performance as measured by or represented by data input to the system.

In summary, the present invention provides a force measurement device with force sensors including, but not limited to, force sensors and strain gauges distributed around the periphery of the force measurement device (for measuring forces applied externally to the device). A force measurement device includes a housing serving as a housing body, electronic components within the housing with hardware supporting wireless communication, a power source, and one or more force sensors distributed around the periphery of the device, wherein the housing is capable of applying to the housing The force is transmitted to the one or more force sensors.

It should be understood, and understood by those skilled in the art, that one or more of the processes, sub-processes or process steps described above and in conjunction with the accompanying figures may be performed by hardware and/or software. If the process is performed by software, the software may reside in software memory (not shown) in a suitable electronic processing component or system (eg, one or more functional components or modules). The software in the software memory may include functions for implementing logical functions (ie, may be implemented in digital form, such as digital circuits or source code, or in analog form, such as analog circuits or analog sources (eg, analog electrical, sound, or video signals) an ordered list of executable instructions of the "logic"), and may optionally be implemented in any computer-readable medium for use by or in combination with an instruction execution system, apparatus or device (eg, a computer-based system, a system including a processor, or other system that can selectively retrieve and execute instructions from an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device). In the context of the present invention, a "computer-readable medium" is any medium that can contain, store, or transmit a program for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or apparatus. The computer readable medium may optionally be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared or semiconductor system, apparatus or device. A more specific, but still non-exhaustive list of computer readable media would include the following: portable computer disks (magnetic), RAM (electronic), read only memory "ROM" (electronic), erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM or Flash Memory) (electronic) and Portable Compact Disc Read Only Memory "CDROM" (optical). Note that the computer readable medium may even be paper or other medium suitable for printing the program, as the program may be captured electronically by, for example, optical scanning of paper or other medium, and then compiled, interpreted or otherwise in a suitable manner as necessary processed and then stored in computer memory.

Electronic processing components or systems, such as one or more of the functional components or modules, may be directly connected to each other or may be in signal communication. It should be understood that the term "in signal communication" as used herein means that two or more systems, devices, components, modules or sub-modules are capable of communicating with each other via signals propagating over some type of signal path. The signal may be a communication signal, a power signal, a data signal or an energy signal which may transmit information, power or energy along a first system, device, component, module or sub-module and a second system, device, component, module or sub-module A signal path between is transmitted from a first system, device, component, module or sub-module to a second system, device, component, module or sub-module. Signal paths may include physical, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, electrochemical, optical, wired, or wireless connections. The signal path may also include additional systems, devices, components, modules or submodules between the first system, device, component, module or submodule and the second system, device, component, module or submodule.

More generally, terms such as "in communication" and "with" (eg, a first component "communicates with" or "is in communication with") are used herein to indicate A structural, functional, mechanical, electrical, signaling, optical, magnetic, electromagnetic, ionic, or fluid relationship between two or more components or elements. Thus, the fact that a component is said to be in communication with a second component is not intended to preclude the possibility that additional components exist between the first component and the second component and/or that additional components are operatively connected to the first component and the second component. The two parts are associated or joined together.

The foregoing descriptions of implementations have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not exhaustive, and does not limit the claimed invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above description, or may be acquired from practicing the invention. The claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.

While the invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications may be made to these embodiments without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention modifications and changes. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word "comprising" or "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements (or steps) other than those listed in a claim. In the device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The word "a" ("a" or "an") preceding an element does not preclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. In any device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain elements are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that these elements cannot be used in combination.

Although the present patent application has been described in detail for purposes of illustration based on what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that such details are for that purpose only and the present patent application is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, On the contrary, the intention is to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements falling within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that this patent application contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.

Claims (22)

1. a kind of force measuring system, comprising:

Housing body, the housing body include multiple surface regions, and the multiple surface region is configured to receive and be applied to Power thereon, wherein at least two individual surface regions in the multiple surface region are configured in response to the power Application and be moved relative to each other；

One or more force snesors, one or more of force snesors, which are configured to generate, transmits information relevant to the power Output signal；

Power supply；With

Electronic building brick, the electronic building brick include one or more processors, wherein the electronic building brick is operably coupled to One or more of force snesors and the power supply, also, the force snesor, the power supply and the electronic building brick are by institute State housing body receiving；And

Wherein, one or more of processors are configured that by machine readable instructions

Handle the sensor outputs signals to conversion and/or the amplification information relevant to the power, to generate Voltage signal；With

The voltage signal is sent to the remote computing device not accommodated by the housing body.

2. force measuring system as described in claim 1, wherein the remote computing device is configured to receive processed described The output signal of sensor and the value of determination cohesion associated with the output signal of the sensor.

3. force measuring system as described in claim 1, wherein one or more of force snesors select free force to sense resistance Device is imitated using the load cell of deformeter, the displacement sensor for including linear variable difference transformer (LVDT) equipment, Hall The group of inductive sensing device and optical sensor, piezoresistive transducer and pressure sensor composition.

4. force measuring system as claimed in claim 2, wherein one or more of force snesors further include that multiple uses are answered Become the load cell of instrument, wherein the load cell is spaced apart in the peripheral region of the housing body, to mention Force sensing region, the power sensing region include no matter received in the power sensing region power position it is how described The region that the value of cohesion is substantially the same, the power sensing region correspond to one or more of the multiple surface region The shape and/or size of surface region.

5. force measuring system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the multiple load cell includes cantilever beam, each cantilever Beam has fixing end and free end, the system also includes:

Frame assembly, the multiple load cell are securely attached to the frame assembly, wherein the frame assembly accommodates It floats in the housing body and relative to the housing body；With

Multiple activating elements, the multiple activating element are located so that at least one activating element is positioned at each cantilever beam Between the free end and the housing body.

6. force measuring system as described in claim 1, wherein the power is to be applied during executing isometric exercise by user The isometric power being added in the housing body.

7. force measuring system as described in claim 1, wherein the housing body has 115 cubic centimetres or smaller body Product size.

8. force measuring system as described in claim 1, wherein the housing body is configured to bear at least 200 pounds of power Without causing substantial damage to the housing body or the component being contained in the housing body.

9. force measuring system as described in claim 1, further includes: be configured to the voltage signal provide temperature-compensating so as to Improve the circuit of the accuracy of the value of cohesion.

10. force measuring system as described in claim 1, wherein the multiple surface region, one or more of power sensing Device and the electronic building brick are configured so that the value for being applied to the cohesion of the housing body is determined to be in +/- 1 pound of essence In exactness and/or in +/- 5% linearity.

11. force measuring system as described in claim 1, wherein one or more of processors are also by machine readable instructions It is configured to that digital measured value will be converted into from the output signal of one or more of sensors substantially in real time, it is described defeated Signal transmission and the repeatability phase in described at least two individual surface regions being applied in the multiple surface region out The information of pass；And one or more of processors are configured to provide for from machine readable instructions for showing and applying to user Add to the relevant substantially real-time information of the power of the housing body.

12. a kind of force measuring method, comprising:

Using housing body reception, the housing body includes multiple surface regions, and the multiple surface region is configured to Receive the power applied on it, wherein at least two individual surface regions in the multiple surface region are in response to described The application of power and can be moved relative to each other；

Output signal is generated using one or more force snesors, the output signal transmits information relevant to the power；

Power supply and the electronic building brick including one or more processors are operably coupled to one or more of power sensings Device；

One or more of force snesors, the power supply and the electronic building brick are contained in the housing body；With

Machine readable instructions are executed, so that one or more of processors:

The output signal of the sensor is handled to convert and/or amplify the information relevant to the power, to generate electricity Press signal；With

The voltage signal is sent to the remote computing device not accommodated by the housing body.

13. force measuring method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the method also includes true using the remote computing device The value of fixed cohesion associated with the output signal of the sensor.

14. force measuring method as claimed in claim 12 further includes providing one or more force snesors, one or more A force snesor selects free force sense resistor, load cell including linear variable difference transformer using deformeter (LVDT) displacement sensor, hall effect sensor and optical sensor, the piezoresistive transducer and pressure sensor group of equipment At group.

15. force measuring method as claimed in claim 13, wherein one or more of sensors include using deformeter Multiple load cells, wherein the load cell is spaced apart in the peripheral region of the housing body, in order to provide Power sensing region, the power sensing region include no matter received in the power sensing region power position it is how described poly- The region that the value of resultant force is substantially the same, the power sensing region correspond to one or more at least two surface region The shape and/or size of a surface region.

16. force measuring method as claimed in claim 15, further includes:

The multiple load cell with cantilever beam is provided, each cantilever beam has fixing end and free end；

The multiple load cell is securely attached to frame assembly, wherein the frame assembly is contained in the shell It floats in main body and relative to the housing body；With

Multiple activating elements are provided, the multiple activating element is located so that at least one activating element is positioned at each cantilever Between the free end and the housing body of beam.

17. force measuring method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the power is during executing isometric exercise by user Apply isometric power on the housing.

18. force measuring method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the housing body has 115 cubic centimetres or smaller Volume size.

19. force measuring method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the housing body is configured as bearing at least 200 pounds Power is without causing substantial damage to the housing body or the component being contained in the housing body.

20. force measuring method as claimed in claim 12 further includes being directed to using the circuit accommodated by the housing body Voltage signal described in temperature change compensation, so as to improve cohesion value accuracy.

21. force measuring method as claimed in claim 13, further include the cohesion that will be applied to the housing body value it is true It is set in +/- 1 pound of accuracy and/or in +/- 5% linearity.

22. force measuring method as claimed in claim 12 further includes that will come from one or more of biographies substantially in real time The output signal of sensor is converted to digital measured value, institute output signal transmission and be applied in the multiple surface region It states the relevant information of repeatability at least two individual surface regions, and provides for being shown to user and being applied to institute State the relevant substantially real-time information of the power of housing body.